By Khalid Doya Idris
The Sarkin Bakan Hausawan Africa, Alhaji Abashe Garba, has called on the Edo and federal governments, as well as security agencies, to ensure that all those responsible for the recent killing of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State, are apprehended and punished accordingly. The hunters were brutally killed in a mob attack by a vigilante group in Udune Efandion, a community in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area.
Speaking to journalists in Bauchi, Alhaji Abashe strongly condemned the killings, stressing that this is not the first time Northerners have faced attacks in the southern region of the country. "We want the government to take immediate action to ensure all those involved in the killings are apprehended and punished according to the law," he said, emphasizing the urgent need for justice to promote peace and national unity.
Alhaji Abashe extended his condolences to the families of the victims and to the Hausa leadership across Africa under Alhaji Abdulkadir Dahiru Koguna. He offered prayers for the deceased, hoping that justice would soon prevail and serve as a deterrent to future violence.
Addressing concerns over local guns reportedly found with the victims, Alhaji Abashe explained that hunters have long been associated with the use of guns, and that their operations are lawful and well-structured. "We operate as an organised group. Carrying guns is not illegal for our members, as these are tools used in hunting. All our members carry official identification cards and should be verified through proper channels when stopped," he said.
The hunters' leader highlighted the critical role hunters play in promoting peace and security nationwide. "For example, in Bauchi State alone, just two years ago in Ningi, particularly in the Ganji area, we confronted kidnappers in several battles. I lost eight of my men, but we succeeded in overcoming the threat," he said, adding that hunters have also tackled kidnappings in Magama Gumau, restoring peace to the community.
Alhaji Abashe urged the federal and state governments, as well as supporters, to continue assisting the hunters in order to enhance their morale and strengthen their contributions to national security. "The community is now peaceful," he said, emphasizing the importance of continued support for hunters.